Cross Stitch Club: Just what Would Paris Hilton want to...
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"Cross Stitch Tips and News"
Brought to you by Patterns Patch Publishing
October 20th 2007

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CONTENTS:

- Just what Would Paris Hilton want to...
- A Top Tip for Cross Stitch Heaven... Avoiding Problems with Hoops
- Recent articles posted at PatternsPatch.com
- Cross Stitch Patterns Uploaded Since The Last Issue
- Recent "Cross Stitch" Forum Posts

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Subject: Just what Would Paris Hilton want to... 

Hi [firstname]

=========================

... know about our "Cross Stitch Tips & News" letter? We've had a
flood of signups to the letter this past month; one using a slight
corruption of the name above. It set me thinking that this might be
a good time to give a brief overview of this letters' contents and
goals, particularly as we've just celebrated our first birthday.

I'm John Wigham and together with my partner Leni Bernardo we
launched Patterns Patch Cross Stitch club on October 24th 2006.
Leni's the Cross Stitch expert, having been brought up with the
craft as a child in South Africa. My cross stitch knowledge is
limited to just about understanding the difference between a
fractional stitch and a French knot.

Growth has been steady in the first year as we set about building
solid foundations through quality content in four corner-stone
areas. The growth in membership has accelerated of late, which is
obviously pleasing and tells us the club is heading in the right
direction.

With regard to content, we have four major areas, with a number of
minor support areas. The corner-stones are:

* A Cross Stitch patterns download library.
* A library of dedicated cross-stitch articles.
* An active cross-stitch discussion forum.
* A Cross-Stitch Tutorial section.

The Download library has more than 200 patterns for members to
download (electronically) whenever they wish (there's no
restriction). There's more than 180 cross stitch patterns with some
12-14 new patterns added each month. There's also 20+ each of
knitting and crochet patterns too. The knitting and crochet
patterns are taken from the more popular sellers in Leni's eBay
store.

For those wishing to improve their stitching, we've a set of
illustrated tutorials covering the most regularly used stitches.
We're planning to start next year off with a series of video
tutorials (so members will be able to watch that darned French knot
being stitched, among other things.).

The club also features some 200 cross stitch articles, which
members can read or print off whenever they wish. This section
features a newly released article every four days (increasing to
one every three days shortly.).

All Members can take part in a lively Cross Stitch forum, which
answers many cross stitch queries. Our active forum posters'
collectively have a truly amazing amount of knowledge, which
they're always willing to share.

All readers of this letter (members and non-members) have two
things in common: a love of Cross Stitch AND ... the Internet,
something I'm much more at home with. So, while this letter's very
much cross-stitch oriented, my editorial ramblings regularly cover
tips related to the Internet, such as useful tools and utilities;
either for fr*e or little cost. You'll also regularly read short
but true stories, snippets from members, and warnings about the
latest scams doing the rounds.

This letter largely reflects the activities on the Patterns Patch
website, while always striving to give value to non-members and
showing them what they're missing out on.

This Cross Stitch Tips & News letter is delivered every two weeks.
Each issue contains a free cross stitch pattern for download by
ALL readers.

        ~~XX~~
       
The next issue of this news letter will be delivered on TUESDAY
November 20th. For the time being we're moving away from our
regular Saturday spot. There are several reasons for this:

1. Our website has been running slowly on Fridays and/or Saturdays
for the past month or so and this is likely to continue until the
new year. I'd like to add this is only noticeable when we're
uploading or making changes to existing features on the site ~ to
the normal visitor (our members) it continues to perform as normal.
       
2. Extensive tests have shown that the best day of the week to get
emails opened is on a Tuesday, so we're giving it a trial.

3. We're attending a 3-day internet marketing seminar the previous
weekend, where yours truly gets to make his debut as a speaker; the
subject being "Subscription Websites + Cross Stitch".

        ~~XX~~

A couple of week's back I received an email from member "Connie"
asking for help in downloading a pattern she wanted. It turned out
Connie had been having problems getting her new printer and PC to
communicate with each other.

Suspecting (wrongly as it turns out) the problem might be
associated with a driver, we went searching on the Internet and
stumbled across a terrific-looking  website called "Tech Support
Forums". Terrific-looking because, let's face it, who wouldn't want
to join a website whose logo is:

"We are offering free computer support for everyone".

We immediately 'Registered' and had a look around. There's
certainly a lot of help and technical information around; and it's
easy to use. However, if you were in a desperate hurry to get a
problem solved, you could end up disappointed since there's no
guarantee you'll get help quickly.

Having said that I'd recommend everybody joining ~ Registration is
free (our favorite price) ~ and keeping the website details close
to hand for when next they have a computer problem. Here's the URL:

http://www.techsupportforum.com/

        ~~XX~~
       
Recently, we were flying from Seattle to San Francisco when
unexpectedly, the plane was diverted to Sacramento along the way.
The flight attendant explained that there would be a delay, and if
we (the passengers) wanted to get off the aircraft the plane would
re-board in 50 minutes.

We all stood up and filed off the front of the plane, except for
one lady who
was blind. I'd noticed her as we boarded the plane in Seattle and
knew she was blind because her beautiful golden Labrador Guide
dog lay quietly underneath the seats in front of her throughout the
entire flight.

We also realized she had likely flown this very same flight several
times before because the pilot approached her, and calling her by
name, said, "Kathy, we are in Sacramento for almost an hour. Would
you like to get off and stretch your legs?" The blind lady replied,
"No thanks, but maybe Buddy would like to stretch his legs and
perhaps have
a comfort break at the same time."

NOW! Close your eyes and Picture this:

All of those people in the gate area, who'd already walked off the
plane, came to a complete standstill when they looked around and
saw...

... the pilot (complete with sun glasses) walk off the plane with a
Guide Dog!!!

People scattered. They not only tried to change planes, but they
were trying to change airlines! Leni disappeared, and then I
spotted her at a United desk trying to purchase two tickets. Boy,
did those of us in the know have a really good belly laugh ~ it
made our journey.

True story... Have a great day and remember...

THINGS AREN'T ALWAYS AS THEY APPEAR ! (make sure you remember this
because we have a terrific little story (with a twist) for you in
the next issue of the letter. (You have been warned;o)

        ~~XX~~

*~*  MEMBERSHIP FOR FR^E  *~*

If you'd like to win a "Three months membership to Patterns Patch
for Free", go here and take a look (it's really easy to enter):

http://www.patternspatch.com/public/231.cfm

Don't forget to search for the mystery word in this letter. When
you've found the word, just put it in the subject line and email it
to me john@patternspatch.com ~ Good Luck!

The latest winner of our draw for "Three-months membership to
Patterns Patch for Free" is:

*~*  Carmel O'Garady  *~*

Congratulations to Carmel and commiserations to those who didn't
win this week. But hey, perseverance is a virtue; try again next
week ~ it could be YOU!

And for those of you who didn't enter, why not? Don't you want this
valuable gift?

You've got to be in it TO WIN IT!

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A TOP TIP FOR CROSS STITCH HEAVEN...
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   Avoiding Problems with Hoops

Although hoops are a wonderful, inexpensive way to keep your fabric
taut as you cross stitch, they can cause some problems.  Follow
these tips to avoid "hoop horrors."

*  Avoid snagging your thread on the hoop by keeping the screw
tucked into your non-stitching hand.
*  Align your fabric in the hoop so it is straight both vertically
and horizontally.
*  Use shorter lengths of thread to keep them from snagging and
catching on the hoop as you stitch.
*  Remove your project from the hoop each time you finish
stitching. This helps prevent creases and wear in the fabric.
*  Select a hoop that is bigger than your design if possible.
Placing a hoop over stitches can tear or squash them.
*  Keep your hoops clean and in good shape to avoid damage to the
fabric.

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RECENT ARTICLES POSTED AT PATTERNS PATCH:
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1. Start Creating Your Own Cross Stitch Designs (Part II).

Continuing from Part I: Now that you have your design drawn,
squared and shaded on your graph paper, you will need to determine
floss colors.  Also, it is a good idea to learn the shortcuts to
creating your own cross stitch designs...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/168.cfm >

   ~X~

2. Cross Stitch a Fantasy Dragon! Could This be Your Next Big
Project?

We all like something for nothing and when it comes to our cross
stitch patterns this is no different. Luckily the immense
competition for subscribers to cross stitch websites means that
there are literally hundreds of free patterns just itching to be
downloaded and stitched. Everything you could ever want to stitch
is out there... you just have to find it...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/162.cfm  >

   ~X~

3. Cute Characters in Cross-Stitch:  Things that Make You Go, "Aaw".

Some of the most popular cross-stitch patterns involve cute
characters.  These are definitely some of the better projects to
choose if you are a beginner or someone notorious for not finishing
projects. Whether it is creating a kitten sampler for a friend or
adding to your dog collection, cute characters can be some of the
most fun and entertaining cross-stitch patterns for everyone...

Read the full article by going here:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/164.cfm >

   ~X~

This is just a small sample of the more than 160 cross stitch
articles enjoyed by our members. If you'd like to read more,
go here to become a member
< https://www.patternspatch.com/public/5.cfm > joining is easy!

===============================================================
CROSS STITCH PATTERNS UPLOADED SINCE THE LAST ISSUE
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We're giving EVERYONE who reads this letter a FREE Bonus cross
stitch pattern ~ Follow the download instructions carefully
and email me john@patternspatch.com if you have any problems.

To view full-sized illustrations of this week's FREE downloads (for
members), go here
< http://www.PatternsPatch.com/public/326.cfm >

You'll find additional information and can also leave comments
and rank (from 1 to 5) each download, if you wish.

Sorry folks! But we're a pattern short this time. Unfortunately, we
had to withdraw one pattern at the 11th hour. We'll endeavour to
make up to you by the next issue.

   ~X~

 ** Patterns For Members Only **

- "Agony in the Garden of Gethsemene"

- "Don't Look at Me Like That"
 
- "Indian Chief and Winged Guardian"

- "Please Repair The Hoola Hoop"

 ** BONUS Download for ALL Readers **

- "Cute White Kitten" by Nanae

The download page for your bonus pattern is here:
< http://www.PatternsPatch.com/public/262.cfm >

Please note that you have until the next issue of your
"Cross Stitch Tips & News" letter to download the BONUS pattern.
After then it will be available only to Members in the
Cross Stitch Library.

   ~X~

We're trying to introduce as wide a range as possible in the
cross stitch library to cater for all tastes. So if there's a
theme we've missed that you'd like to see patterns for, then
please drop me a quick email to the address towards the
bottom of this letter.

To view this week's gallery, here's the link again
< http://www.PatternsPatch.com/public/326.cfm >

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RECENT "CROSS STITCH FORUM" POSTS
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The Cross Stitch forum has continued to post many interesting
threads. If you haven't taken part yet, why not take a look and
maybe join in. Hey! You might even enjoy it.

   ~X~
   
1. Best Place to find fabric?
   
Member "mamab" posted this query, which, so far has
attracted 39 replies.
   
"I downloaded a Patterns Patch pattern, and have the thread. I'm
having problems finding fabric. About the only place we have to get
aida cloth is Walmart, and they don't have a very good selection. I
don't really want to go traipsing all over the country trying to
find it, do you have suggestions? I would prefer to see it in
person rather than order it online."

 ------------------------------------

"You could check the yellow pages on line to see if there are any
cross stitch shops in surrounding towns... They usually have the
best selections."

"... if you have a Hobby Lobby, you might find something there.
They almost always have a selection of Aida as well as several
evenweave fabrics. And be sure to check their remnants! Recently I
found 3 yards of 32 ct. and 2 yards of 28 ct. that were drastically
reduce..."

"A few times I've also found Aida and other fabrics in thrift
stores and yard sales. Those finds are rare but it pays to look."

If you'd like to try and win a fr*e membership, reply to
john@patternspatch.com with the word 'Jacket' in your email subject
line.

"I'm with you... The only place I have nearby is Walmart. I have
saw and bought some online through ebay and was surprised that I
was satisfied. I guess I will buy most of mine on ebay now. I don't
really have any other options..."

"I prefer to stay away from Walmart as much as possible. I always
end up spending way too much money there. I'll look and see what's
available on ebay or etsy."
   
"E-bay is like a totally different world to me!!! My dil does any
of my "e-bay business" for me!!!! It does offer a lot of
opportunties that would not otherwise be available. It may be
difficult to match colors for the cross stitching material though."

"I too, have found fabric on eBay. This is an excellent source as
long as one is familiar with the prices in retail stores. Otherwise
you could possibly end up paying too much in an auction situation..."

"... you also have to remember to weigh in the cost of shipping
when buying on ebay... that is usually where they get you:)"

"I just found a couple of sites that I've missed in my many
searches: http://www.craftsonlinestore.com/ (TONS of cross stitch
supplies, and not half-bad prices) and
http://www.purplekittyyarns.com/ (They're having a BIG sale, and
have more than just yarn)..."

Read the full discussion here:
http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/154.htm  
 
    ~X~  

2. What's the Toughest Project You've ever Worked On?
   
Member "slckstitcher" posted this query, which, so far has
attracted 25 replies.

"For me, it would have to be my Barnyard Kitties... I'm sure you
all could have guessed that one on your own though!! The dark
fabric makes it hard to see, and it's dark floss on dark fabric
which doesn't help... soo that by far is my toughest so far!!"

------------------------------------

"I did a wedding sampler for my son and his wife... it looked
really simple but turned out to be much more involved than I
realized! Took me FOREVER!!!"

... and we are all still pulling for you and the kitties...lol"

"... I also joined a UFO SAL which begins the first weekend in
October (6th and 7th) and of course my Kitties are the UFO I
picked...so I'll be working on them that weekend for sure as much
as I can! I'll post progress pics after that weekend!"

"Anybody else want to join in this SAL with me? I'll let you know
when the SAL weekends are and all you have to do is stitch as much
as you can on whatever UFO you choose!! It's great motivation to
get those pesky UFOs done! I think it'll be just the 1st weekend of
every month...not sure yet though! Let me know if you're
interested. No pressure, just work on the UFO as much as you're
able to and then post here what you're progress was!! simple and
easy!"

"I think the toughest was actually the smallest..."

"I was doing work in an AIDS Hospice as part of my spiritual
training and the fellow I was volunteering for/with really liked
stitching but didn't have the energy, so we would sit together and
take turns messing around with this picture of a Victorian House,
that he had drawn."

"We didn't actually complete the project but it was finished enough
to give to his mom during his last night in the hospital where he
was taken to die, so his mom could talk with him about the house
while he was sort of drifting in and out of consciousness. It was a
good thing for them to share during his last hours."

"My toughest project so far would have to be my Biscornu. Putting
that baby together is giving me a real headache! My problem is not
leaving enough fabric around the design so joining the chainstitch
is putting too much stress on the fabric. I'm afraid it will end in
disaster! Fray Check has been applied but even that doesn't seem to
be working. :-("

"... Oh well, if that happens the little designs can be appliqued
to another project and I'll just start another one."

"It would have to be the pair of tropical birds I did on 18ct Black
Aida... it took forever and I believe caused me to have to get the
eyeglass prescription changed twice;)"

"A close second would be the sampler I did on 32ct Linen... very
small holes and the Linen was uneven... had to us a magnifyer for
that one..."

Read the full discussion here:
http://www.PatternsPatch.com/snip/155.htm

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When our membership grows to a certain level we'll be able to
approach major suppliers and manufacturers and negotiate
discounts for our members. So please make sure your stitching
friends know about Patterns Patch.

Forward this email newsletter to them so that they can subscribe
(www.patternspatch.com) and receive future copies directly to
their own mailbox.

Please do not reply to this email. It was sent to you by our
computer, which is splendid at sending emails but absolutely
useless at reading them! To get in touch with us, please send a
short email to john@patternspatch.com.

... and finally, if you have children, give them a hug and a
kiss, and tell them you love them.

Sincerely,

John Wigham

PS If you're not already a member, why not? You're missing out
on so much! go here to join now:

< https://www.patternspatch.com/public/5.cfm > joining is easy!

Your next "Cross Stitch Tips & News" letter will appear on
TUESDAY November 20th 2007.
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Missed an issue of our Cross Stitch Tips & News letter?  Find them
all at:
< http://www.patternspatch.com/public/department27.cfm >
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